Power Rankings Roundup: ‘Competitive spirit’

The Orlando Magic’s general manager asked for a better competitive spirit at the midpoint. Instead, all the Magic have done is further confuse.

At the midpoint of this season, Magic general manager Rob Hennigan granted several interviews and expressed his frustration with the Magic’s inconsistent “competitive spirit” in games through the first half of the season.

It was not that the Magic did not have their moments. They looked good for several stretches in the season. The consistency of effort and focus were not present and it was evident as the Magic drifted through the midpoint. The change in style brought a momentary jolt, but it was just that.

Orlando has lost 12 of the past 14 games — two wins sandwiched between two six-game losing streaks. And many of those losses have been ugly and puzzling. Not that the Magic could or should have won all those games, but many games left fans wanting more and certainly the coaching staff wanting more.

That Hennigan line about competitive spirit continues to ring as the Magic go through this portion of the schedule. They are continuing to struggle with that “competitive spirit” on a consistent basis.Jacque Vaughn has resorted to shifting the lineup and going with anybody who can possibly bring energy.

That is where the Magic are at. Searching for energy.

This week’s power rankings still do not quite know what to make of this team. And, frankly, neither do we.

Next: Marc Stein, ESPN